James Bennett – Project Manager at Wernick Hire
"It’s amazing what we can achieve as a team..."
James’ interview
My name James Bennett and I am the Project Manager at Wernick Hire’s Glasgow depot.
Around half of my role is field based, which means I spend time with customers on the site to make sure that they have everything they need. I work closely with subcontractors ensuring that any fixes are carried out correctly and on time, and I produce reports, showing the work undertaken on site.
The Foreman and Chargehands report to me and we meet every day to discuss immediate jobs and to plan upcoming work. I am also responsible for training new non office-based staff.
I started with Wernick in 1997, when I was 17. I started in the yard where I spent four years learning a variety of skills until I was promoted to Foremen at the age of 21. At aged 26, my old Manager left to work with a competitor, SGB Rovacabin, and he asked if I would join him over there.
As fate would have it, six years later Wernick acquired SGB Rovacabin and I was back in familiar settings and working again as Foreman.
I get a real buzz from my role – problem solving for customers is very satisfying. A recent project had to be delayed due to extreme weather conditions and then the client asked for additional work and alterations. Despite an already tight programme, we still hit our deadline.
It helps that I work with a welcoming and supportive team. The staff at the depot help to make my role enjoyable and it’s amazing what we can achieve as a team.
Occasionally my role involves unusual hours, it’s all part of going the extra mile for the customer. For example, on a project for the Dundee hire depot, the customer required a building inside a warehouse. No one thought that it could be done, which made me more determined to do it! Late at night, we delivered the modules and completed handover.
I was told Wernick was a job for life when I started all those years ago, and it feels like they were right. I would 100% recommend starting your career with Wernick and I’ve recommended roles within the company to people I know.
Outside of work:
I love spending time with family – I’ve even been known to have a go at motor cross so I can spend time with my sons. Unfortunately, that was hobby was cut short following an accident where I dislocated my shoulder! I’m also a keen supporter of Celtic FC and I enjoy playing golf. I recently took part in a charity golf event with our Regional Manager (three rounds of golf in one day) and I loved every minute of it.